Having never read or learnt much about the time between Biblical period and the Renaissance, except from the pages of a couple of books by Ken Follet, this was an excellent introduction. From some reading at the side, I learn that the author was at-times controversial - never believe anything he says, someone wrote.
However, I found it an entertaining book to read. The ever-changing influences on history are described well. There are illustrations on almost every second page.
The book is written from a strong English perspective; that may put off some readers. The senselessness of many actions are pointed out e.g. the Crusades, and the Roman Catholic Church does not come out smelling of roses. ( )